Is It A Bad Idea To Have Floorboards In Your Kitchen?

It can be tricky to decide what type of flooring to have in your kitchen, as there’s such a wide range of choice. Just like every other material, wood has its own pros and cons and it’s not an ideal choice for everyone. However, floorboards can work in a kitchen if you’re prepared to look after them.

The downsides

Wood is very susceptible to water damage and can warp if leaks occur in your kitchen. You may think that your house is never going to flood or believe you’re a very careful person; but what happens when your fridge breaks down when you’re away? You run the risk of coming back to a kitchen with warped floorboards that have to be replaced – which is a costly job. Any spills that you or a guest may make must be wiped up immediately too. Even moisture in the air can have a negative effect over time.

It’s worth remembering that wood darkens with age, so it may not stay the same colour forever. Moreover, softer woods can get dented easily, meaning any forks you drop will become part of your kitchen floor’s history. If you’re looking for a rustic sort of look, this may not bother you, but otherwise it’s going to be very difficult to keep your kitchen pristine.

As it’s so easy to dent and damage, you need to be wary when moving furniture around in your kitchen. Be sure to lay down some mats in places where water might be spilled, such as near the sink or underneath a pet’s water bowl.

You need to be prepared to clean your kitchen floor pretty often too – although no matter what material you have you should do this regularly anyway. You may also find that the floor requires occasional sanding and polishing to keep it in top condition.

The upsides

Wood is seen as a very attractive flooring material, especially in a kitchen, and many estate agents agree that it can even raise the value of your home. Plus it’s pretty easy to change the look of your floorboards, as you can stain, refinish or repaint them whenever and however you wish.

If your heart is set on kitchen floorboards, you need to ensure that they are properly sealed and maintained. Doing so will ensure your flooring lasts for a very long time. Properly sealing it will also make cleaning a lot easier.

Wooden flooring is a lot softer on your feet than other materials, such as ceramic tiles. This is important if you spend a lot of time in your kitchen, whether you’re cooking, baking or holding a party. If you’re a clumsy person, there’s more chance your plates will survive if they’re dropped on the floor too. However, this is no guarantee and remember that vinyl flooring is softer.

Hardwood does not harbour mould, dust or any other sorts of allergens, which is ideal for anyone in your household who has particularly sensitive senses.

Wooden floors might require more after-care than other materials, but they can be worth the investment. Not only will you and your guests think they look stunning, so will the future buyer of your home.